We are pleased to annouce that the application for the 2023 Graduate Trainee Buyer Opportunity at Pick n Pay is now open.
Pick n Pay, one of South Africa’s largest and most beloved retailers, is seeking motivated, ambitious graduates for the position of Graduate Trainee Buyer. This opportunity is open for graduates with strong academic profiles, a knack for mathematics, and a passion for retail. Successful applicants will be based at our corporate offices in Kenilworth – Cape Town or Kensington – Johannesburg.
We are in search of recently graduated individuals who exhibit a natural flair for numbers, excellent communication skills (verbal and written), high energy, and a drive to engage with people. Our Graduate Trainee Buyer program offers an excellent start to a career in retail, exposing you to various facets of buying and inventory management.
The Advantages of this Role
Participating in our Graduate Trainee Buyer program provides you with an exceptional opportunity to kickstart your career. You will gain a thorough understanding of retail buying dynamics, sharpen your numerical and analytical skills, and have the chance to build valuable relationships within the industry.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
- A BCom Degree (i.e., in Marketing, Finance, Management, Maths, Stats, Economics etc. from a Mainstream University)
- An Honours Degree is advantageous but not mandatory
- Recent graduate status (no prior work experience required)
- Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. Intermediate knowledge of Ms Excel is beneficial.
Duties and Responsibilities
As a Graduate Trainee Buyer, you will be expected to:
- Collaborate closely with all buying support teams and participate in on-the-job training
- Attend meetings, workshops, and team-building events
- Compile reports and present to team members
- Analyze existing systems and suggest improvements
- Assist the Manager or Supervisor with research and other tasks
- Occasionally visit different work sites for fieldwork
- Offer administrative support throughout the buying process
- Compile, balance, and update spreadsheets and reports
- Build constructive relationships with suppliers and research new ones
- Understand space planning fundamentals of relevant categories
- Track market trends and prepare competitive retail and pricing strategies
- Maintain appropriate inventory levels and prepare purchasing trends forecasts
- Compile reports on product performance and statistics.
Competencies
We’re looking for candidates who exhibit the following competencies:
- Value-driven with strong customer service orientation
- Team player mentality
- Ability to handle pressure effectively
- Good organizational, coordination, and administrative skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to multitask and be flexible
- Proactive and willing to take the initiative
- Excellent research skills and a desire to grow
- A positive attitude and a growth mindset.
Application Procedure
If you’re ready to take the first step towards an exciting career in retail buying, we invite you to apply. For more information, and to apply, visit Pick n Pay Graduate Programme.
Please note that only candidates being considered will be contacted. The selection process will include a competency-based interview to assess the requirements mentioned above, and successful applicants might be required to complete psychometric assessments. A test or another form of evaluation will be required at the end of the graduate program.
Closing Date for Applications
The deadline for applications is 26th July 2023.
